What Can I Expect

During your first appointment, we will complete a diagnostic assessment. The assessment process assists us with the gathering of information needed to develop an individualized person-centered plan for each person we serve. Once the assessment is completed, you will be assigned a therapist who has the responsibility for the delivery and coordination of all of your services in our program.

All services and treatment options are planned and delivered with your active participation and/or the participation of your legal guardian, if applicable. MHSS Program staff will provide all services with consideration and respect for your personal dignity, autonomy and privacy. We will work as your partner in your recovery process, and will help you determine what your goals are and how you will know that you have achieved them.You and your therapist will work together to develop a treatment plan that addresses your goals and defines the objectives and interventions that will be used to meet them. You will be an active participant in this process, with staff here to guide and assist you as needed.

All services are designed to:

Support your recovery, health and well being

Enhance your quality of life

Reduce your mental health symptoms and build resilience

Restore and/or improve your day to day functioning

Build your support system and ability to participate in community activities

What is Mental Health Treatment?

Therapists provide you with a safe and private place to talk about your thoughts/feelings, to get support and to learn new things. If you are seen by a psychiatrist, they will determine whether medication is needed to help you better manage your symptoms, and will meet with you regularly to talk about how the medicine is working.

What will I do in Therapy?

Therapy can consist of many things, including:

Talking/sharing honestly and openly during appointments about all areas of your life, including good things, worries that won’t go away, things that are upsetting to you, and how you feel about yourself.

Participating in skill development/training

Role playing

Homework assignments

How often do I see my therapist?

You will help decide how often you need to meet with your therapist. It might be weekly, every other week, or even monthly as you reach your goals and are getting ready to end treatment. The frequency will depend on what you would like and what your therapist recommends based on your current symptoms.

Where will I meet with my therapist?

Our team of therapists is mobile and will be able to meet with you in the environment in which you feel most comfortable. This may be our office or your home or some other place in the community.

When does treatment end?

Individuals typically receive MHSS Program services for 1 to 2 years. During the initial assessment, and throughout treatment, assigned staff will discuss transition/discharge plans with you. Our goal is to help you prepare, and be ready for, for the completion of program services and to help you transition the skills learned in therapy into your daily life. The following indicators may signal that it is time to phase out mental health services:

When identified goals have been met

When your identified symptoms are no longer interfering with your daily functioning

If you or your guardian decide you no longer wish to participate in services